The treatment system uses a cold cap to cool the scalp, preserving a patient’s hair – and their self-confidence – during chemotherapy.

Blacktown Hospital Cancer and Haematology Centre manager Leanne Watson said the machine would be a game-changer for chemotherapy patients.

“Hair loss can affect how a person feels about themselves and many patients are reluctant to have chemotherapy because they’re worried about losing their hair,” she said.

“This treatment uses a frozen cap that’s worn tightly on the head before, during and after a chemotherapy session; it is administered via tubes filled with coolant that chill the cap and limit the chemotherapy getting to the hair follicles – without increasing the chances of the cancer returning.”

The hospital’s cancer and haematology centre nurses are now being trained to use the machine, before it is available to patients later this year.

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